I first met John Thomas Booty during his visit to Monaco Ville, where my family’s home is at. He was “just enjoying the scenery” as he said, when I asked him his business in Monaco. Most people come to gamble in The Spelugues (Monte Carlo), but John seemed to have no urge to play with Lady Luck.
He was a very kind and handsome man who visited less often than I would have enjoyed. Though I admit, my means make it so that I could have visited him whenever I pleased. It was at his request to visit him that I missed my Uncle’s accession ceremony, which suited me as I’ve never enjoyed state-pomp.
As always, with hindsight comes the recognition of times spent apart. I dearly wish that could see John one more time without having it be a memory.
Marietta Grimaldi.